1982 Austin Ambassador vs. 2001 BMW 318
To start off, 2001 BMW 318 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Austin Ambassador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Austin Ambassador would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Austin Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 318 (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (91 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1982 Austin Ambassador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 318 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1982 Austin Ambassador. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW 318 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Austin Ambassador, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2001 BMW 318 (167 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Austin Ambassador. (155 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2001 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Austin Ambassador.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Austin Ambassador | 2001 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Ambassador | 318 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2740 mm |
